Shaler Area boys and girls bowling teams finished successful seasons, sending four players to regionals. The boys team finished with an overall record of 4-2 and the girls team finished with an overall record of 0-6. Not only did they send Ryan Callahan, Braden Scott, Sydney Lang, and Lexi Pilyih to singles regionals, but both teams also advanced to the championships.

“This year, our team finished 3rd in our section but, since we were able to score high enough games throughout the whole season, we earned a wildcard spot. We ended up making it past championships and were able to get to regions. Unfortunately, we did not advance, but it was a great learning experience and it was a really fun time,” sophomore Braden Scott said.

Senior Sydney Lang was also very proud of her season and the team’s overall performance.

“Overall, we came 4th in the section for teams, but we were able to secure a wildcard spot to championships. On top of that, we were then able to band together and earn a spot at team regionals as well. Personally, I finished with an average of 198 and 7th place in the girls division of the WPIBL. I am so proud of everything I have been able to accomplish this season and how far this team has grown in only a few short months,” Lang said.

To become this successful, both the boys and girls team spent many hours at the lanes practicing. They spent lots of time spare shooting and doing challenges to prepare for their games.

“We practice a lot of spare shooting which is one of the most important skills when bowling. We typically spend a good portion of our practice just shooting spares. We also do a lot of games such as knock where if you don’t get a strike or spare you’re eliminated. This can really put pressure on you since everyone is watching which is good because come game time you won’t feel any sort of nerves at all,” Scott said.

Both teams put in lots of work and effort to make this season as successful as it could possibly be. Recalling this season, Sydney Lang shared one of her favorite memories, especially with being a senior on the team.

“Senior night was my favorite part of this season by far. I remember being really anxious about performing well with everyone there, and the whole team, boys and girls, were cheering behind me with a fathead of me as a surprise. I cannot remember the last time I was that happy, and it was hands down one of my favorite memories with the sport,” Lang said.